THE number of seven to 10-year-olds with a mobile phone has almost doubled in the past three years, according to a survey published today.

THE number of seven to 10-year-olds with a mobile phone has almost doubled in the past three years, according to a survey published today.

In 2001, 13% of primary school children owned a phone yet by the start of this year the number had increased to 25%.

The findings come from a survey of 2,000 seven to 10-year-olds from market analysts Mintel.

Jenny Catlin, consumer analyst at Mintel, said, "Many parents find it reassuring to be able to get in touch with their children at any time and some consider mobile phones important for their children's safety.

"Children in one-parent households are more likely to have their own phone. This may be because these children have more complex lifestyles, especially if they are in regular touch with their non-resident parent and may need a phone more to help with the logistics of moving between two households."

The poll, conducted at the start of the year through questionnaires sent via parents, revealed life can be stressful, even for young children.

More than a third of the seven to 10-year-olds said they were "very worried" about school work and 48% were concerned about bullying. As a result, just 46% said they enjoyed school.